What To Do When Sewage Backup Water Floods My Home
What To Do When Sewage Backup Water Floods My Home
By: Brothers Equipment & Supply
How To Deal With A Sewer Backup In The Home
Wear Protective Gear
One of the first steps you should take if you want to clean up the property yourself is to wear protective gear.
If you need to go into an area that is contaminated, make sure you dress properly for it. You will need tall rubber boots, gloves, a face mask, and eye goggles.
Long sleeves are strongly advised too! Tuck your pants deep into your boots and make sure you are completely covered so you can prevent any sewage from touching your skin.
If you have a full-body suit, this is what you should wear.
Stay Away From The Water
Make sure that you are extremely careful when you are dealing with sewage issues.
If you have an area in your home that has been contaminated with sewage water, other than having some protective gear around, you need to keep away from the water at all times.
This is to prevent the water from ever getting in touch with your skin.
Shut Off The Gas Or Any Other Fuel Line
Any line that you may have that can lead to your heater, furnace, or a body of hot water in the basement should be shut off as soon as possible.
If this is the area of contamination, then you need to call your local gas provider and let them know that they need to shut off the supply to your home.
If you need to contact the fire department, do that too.
Let anyone who lives in the household know that they should not use any devices which are connected to the gas line.
Shut Off The Electricity
Other than the gas line, you should take care of the electricity in the home too.
Make sure to shut off the main power line so you can isolate the affected area as soon as possible.
If you see that this is not a possibility, then make sure to pull the plug on all electrical devices that can get in touch with the sewage water.
Use a broom and make sure you are not standing in water when you are doing this so you can avoid electrocution.
If there is plenty of water, then remember to AVOID THE WATER at all times, since it may already be electrified.
Take Pictures Of The Damage
One of the first things you need to do too is to take pictures of the area that is damaged.
If you want to help yourself, the best way would be to make sure all the damage is documented.
It is not advised to go down and clean the area yourself, but it is advised to take pictures of everything.
This is something you can use for insurance purposes, and the pictures can help you create and file a claim.
No Water Appliances
In case a sewage backup happens, make sure to refrain from using any water appliances.
This includes any hoses, showers, and washing machines.
By doing so you will avoid adding any additional water pressure and make the situation even more hazardous than it already is.
Less water means you can better resolve the issue.
Get Some Clean Air
Circulating some fresh air into the area can help you a lot more than you can imagine.
This way you can clear out the strong and unpleasant smell from your home.
Sewage backup can come with a lot of unpleasant smells, so this is one of the best ways to get them away from the home.
If you do not air your home then the air may even become toxic and can create some serious health issues for both you and your family.
Open all the doors and windows and let the smell and toxic air outside.
Contact A Professional
Last but not least, it is not advisable to deal with a serious situation such as this one yourself. In this case, it is best that you contact some professionals who can help you.
When you are looking for a company that can do this for you, make sure to find someone with the expertise and proper water damage equipment to do this.
This includes dehumidifers, air movers and more!
The sooner you report the issue, the better it will be for you.
Is Sewage Backup Water Dangerous?
Sewage backup can be an extremely dangerous and difficult issue for certain households.
They can pose a threat to both you and your family.
Exposure can cause breathing issues, gastrointestinal issues, inflammation of the respiratory system, skin infections and rashes, restricted airways, and so much more.
This is why it is always an advisable course of action to make sure you call a professional water damage team with the right water damage equipment the moment you notice that you are dealing with sewage water backing up in your home.
A water damage restoration company will fix the issue the right way and do it fast.
When it comes to the dangers you can face while you are dealing with a sewage backup in your basement, note that they can be plenty.
Sewage contains both organic and non-organic waste.
However, this waste can include plenty of garbage, human waste, and mineral salts, and as the process of decomposition happens, they release odours and gases that can harm you and your overall health. At one decomposition stage, there are even disease-causing pathogens that show up.
This is why it is absolutely important to clean up the space thoroughly after a backup happened. Remember, sewage water is classified as black water, meaning it is the most contagious.
Water-Damage Equipment For Faster Drying And Dehumidification
Commercial Dehumidifiers – Extract moisture from the air to lower humidity levels, preventing mold growth and speeding up drying.
Industrial-Grade Air Scrubbers – Filter airborne contaminants, dust, and mold spores while improving indoor air quality during the drying process.
Water Extraction Pumps – Quickly remove large volumes of standing water from floors, carpets, and basements, reducing the amount of moisture left for drying.
Wet/Dry Vacuums – Help remove smaller amounts of water from surfaces and carpets, preventing deeper absorption into floors and walls.
Moisture Meters and Hygrometers – Measure the moisture content in walls, floors, and the air, ensuring thorough drying and preventing hidden water damage.
Infrared Thermal Imaging Cameras – Detect hidden pockets of moisture behind walls and ceilings, preventing mold growth and structural damage.
Desiccant Dehumidifiers – Use silica gel or other drying agents to absorb moisture, making them ideal for cold environments where traditional dehumidifiers are less effective.
LGR Dehumidifiers – More efficient than standard dehumidifiers, as they extract more moisture at lower humidity levels, making them ideal for deep-drying large areas.
Air Movers – Increase air circulation and direct airflow over wet surfaces, which accelerates evaporation and reduces drying time.
Where To Buy Water Damage Equipment?
You can buy water damage equipment here on our site at Brothers Equipment And Supply.
Our equipment is expert-approved and we offer free shipping across Canada and the USA. Pick-up is available.
FAQs
What should I do first when I experience a sewer backup?
Immediately stop using all water in your home to prevent further backup. Avoid flushing toilets, running sinks, or using appliances like dishwashers and washing machines. If safe, turn off electricity in affected areas and call a professional plumber or restoration service.
Is a sewer backup dangerous?
Yes, sewer backups contain harmful bacteria, viruses, and toxic gases. Exposure can cause serious health risks, including respiratory issues and infections. Always wear protective gear (gloves, boots, and a mask) if you must enter the affected area.
Can I clean up a sewer backup myself?
For minor spills, you may be able to clean up using protective gear, disinfectants, and proper ventilation. However, if the backup is extensive or affects large areas, hiring a professional water damage restoration service is recommended to prevent contamination and mold growth.
Who should I call when I have a sewer backup?
Contact a plumber to diagnose and fix the blockage. If there is flooding or property damage, call a water damage restoration company. Additionally, report the issue to your municipal sewer department, as they may be responsible if the backup originated from the main sewer line.
5. Will my home insurance cover sewer backup damage?
Coverage varies by policy. Many homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover sewer backups unless you have a specific sewer backup rider added. Contact your insurance provider immediately to check your coverage and file a claim if applicable.
6. What are the main causes of a sewer backup?
Common causes include:
- Clogged pipes due to grease, hair, or foreign objects.
- Tree root infiltration into sewer lines.
- Heavy rainfall overloading municipal sewer systems.
- Damaged or collapsed sewer lines.
7. How can I prevent future sewer backups?
Preventative steps include:
- Avoid flushing wipes, grease, or non-biodegradable items.
- Regularly maintain and inspect your sewer lines.
- Install a backwater valve to prevent sewage from flowing back into your home.
- Keep trees and shrubs away from sewer lines to prevent root intrusion.
8. How do I disinfect my home after a sewer backup?
- Remove contaminated water and debris.
- Scrub affected areas with hot water and soap.
- Disinfect all surfaces with a bleach solution (1 cup bleach per gallon of water).
- Dry the area completely with fans and dehumidifiers to prevent mold growth.
9. What are the signs that I may have a sewer backup developing?
- Slow drains in multiple areas of your home.
- Gurgling noises from toilets or drains.
- Unpleasant sewage odors coming from drains.
- Water backing up in lower-level fixtures when using water upstairs.
10. Can I use chemical drain cleaners to fix a sewer backup?
It is not recommended as chemical drain cleaners can damage pipes and are often ineffective against severe clogs. Instead, use a plumber’s snake or call a professional for a proper inspection and cleaning.
If you have any questions about our article “What To Do When Sewage Backup Water Floods My Home?” or about water damage equipment, feel free to contact us at 1-416-912-2205 or message us on social media!
